Missing home is a normal part of studying abroad. Here is how students settle in, and who can help along the way.
It might arrive on the third day or the third month. A familiar song, a photo of a family dinner, a quiet Sunday afternoon, and suddenly home feels very far away. Students sometimes feel embarrassed by it; parents sometimes feel guilty. Neither reaction is needed.
Homesickness is one of the most common experiences of studying abroad. It is a sign of strong connections at home, not a sign that the decision was wrong. With time, routine and the right support, almost every student moves through it.
What homesickness can look like
- Missing people and places: family, friends, pets, favourite food or simply the sound of your own language.
- Feeling tired or flat: a new language and culture take more energy than students expect.
- Wanting to stay in: spending more time in your room or on your phone with friends at home.
- Comparing everything: “At home, we do it differently.”
These feelings often come in waves, and they usually soften as daily life becomes familiar.
Small habits that help students settle
- Build a routine: regular meals, sleep and exercise give each day a steady shape.
- Say yes to one invitation a week: a club, a host family outing or a study group.
- Bring a little home with you: photos, a favourite snack or a recipe to cook for your host family.
- Plan calls home, not constant calls: a weekly video chat comforts without keeping your heart in two places.
- Notice progress: write down one new thing you did each week.
Where to find support
No student is expected to manage alone. Canadian schools and homestay programs have people whose job is to help.
- School counsellors: guidance and student-support counsellors listen confidentially and can suggest clubs, buddies or simple next steps.
- Homestay coordinators: they check in with students and host families and can help if something at home is not working.
- Custodians: for students under 18, a custodian is a trusted adult in Canada who stays in contact with the school.
- Host families and teachers: often the first to notice, and glad to help.
If sadness feels heavy or lasts a long time, students should talk to a counsellor or trusted adult soon, rather than waiting. Asking for help is a strength.
Parents can learn more about the support around under-18 students in our homestay and custodianship guide.
A good match between student, school and family makes settling in easier. Book a free pre-assessment with Canadian Edu Centre and we will help you choose a supportive environment from the start. Talk to us today.